Green Party councillor David Healy has critiqued Dublin airport’s approach to sustainability amid a dispute over passenger limits. Healy believes that the aviation industry cannot solely rely on technology to address climate concerns. The DAA, which operates Dublin airport, is currently opposing an annual cap on passenger numbers, arguing that it restricts economic growth and damages tourism.
While the DAA insists on the need for growth to invest in sustainability, Healy argues that the benefits of technology in reducing emissions are being overstated. The DAA’s plans to accommodate up to 40 million passengers annually by 2026 are being challenged by the current cap of 32 million. Healy suggests that the Green party is open to modifying the threshold but stresses the importance of taking climate concerns seriously in future projections.
Technological advancements such as hydrogen-powered planes and sustainable aviation fuels are being considered to make flying more sustainable. However, the Irish government notes that these solutions are still in the early stages of development. Discussions regarding lifting the passenger cap at Dublin airport are ongoing, with Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin emphasizing the potential benefits for airports outside of Dublin. Despite this, the DAA’s CEO Kenny Jacobs argues that the idea of incentivizing airlines to relocate to regional airports is unrealistic. The resolution of the passenger cap issue is not expected until next year.
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